Zayden Perez took 29 rounds of chemo therapy and has come out on top.

The 9-year soccer player who was taking boxing lessons as well found out he had bone cancer last fall.

That led to the Nile Garden fourth grader to take numerous trips to Oakland Children’s Hospital in Oakland where he underwent chemo treatment as well as leg surgery.

“He’s a warrior,’ noted Tori Perez, his grandmother.

And at least several hundred people agree.

On Saturday to celebrate the end of his chemotherapy more than 50 vehicle loads of well-wishers plus police in patrol cars, Manteca Ambulance crews, and firefighters aboard the department aerial ladder truck took part in a parade down Raylow Avenue.

A grinning Perez waved from his grandparents’ front lawn as people passed by in vehicles decked with signs congratulating him as well as balloons. There were also other touches such as a “confetti cannon” and a bubble machine.

Many also dropped off gifts, cards, and signs wishing Perez well.

Perez — described by family and friends as “amazing”, having a “heart of gold”, and being very caring — indicated he was thrilled about the parade and more than surprised to see police cars and the fire engine leading it.

His grandmother noted afterwards Perez said “this was the best day of my life.”

The son of Amanda Perez and Bryant Jacobo found out he had cancer after complaining of foot pain while playing sports in October.

He is the grandson of Marty and Ilida Jacob as well as John and Tori Perez.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com